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Home GlossaryAluminum Radiator

Cooling & Drivetrain

Aluminum Radiator

A larger-capacity all-aluminum radiator replacing the OEM plastic-tank unit. Common JDM brands include Koyo, Mishimoto, ARC, and Trust/Greddy. Required for built turbo engines making 400+ wheel hp. Pairs with an upgraded thermostat (lower opening temperature) and high-flow water pump for full cooling system upgrade.

Related Terms

Oil Cooler

A small radiator dedicated to cooling engine oil. Required for any tracked JDM car since OEM cooling systems are sized for street use. Setrab and Mocal are common JDM-fitment brands. Sizing is critical — an oversized oil cooler can prevent oil from reaching operating temperature. Most builds add an oil cooler thermostat to bypass the cooler until oil exceeds 90 °C.

Water-to-Air Intercooler / Water Cooler

A cooling system that uses circulating water through a heat exchanger instead of (or in addition to) a traditional air-to-air intercooler. Water-to-air systems handle short bursts of high boost more efficiently — ideal for drag racing. Liquid-cooled chargecooler systems are common in modern JDM builds (e.g., GR Yaris, A90 Supra factory units).

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